Sexual Abuse Therapists in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX

Photo of Renese M Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Renese M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
(512) 559-1636 View (512) 559-1636
Photo of Shanti Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Shanti Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Reaching out to a therapist for help can be an intimidating process and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for adults, children, and teenagers, that makes talking about, and dealing with, deeply personal things less overwhelming. Many of the clients who work with me are struggling to have the kind of life they wish to have. Sometimes this is because of old behavior patterns that aren't working for them anymore, or symptoms or challenges they face because of past experiences that have made coping with current circumstances difficult.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Reaching out to a therapist for help can be an intimidating process and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for adults, children, and teenagers, that makes talking about, and dealing with, deeply personal things less overwhelming. Many of the clients who work with me are struggling to have the kind of life they wish to have. Sometimes this is because of old behavior patterns that aren't working for them anymore, or symptoms or challenges they face because of past experiences that have made coping with current circumstances difficult.
(512) 309-7762 View (512) 309-7762
Photo of Amias Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Amias Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
I believe there is always hope. Hope to reach balance. Hope to reach peace. Hope to heal. Hope to grow. With the help of a strong therapeutic relationship and appropriate interventions, I believe individuals can learn more about themselves through exploring past and present life occurrences. Within that process, present and future doubts, fears, or concerns can simultaneously be addressed.
I believe there is always hope. Hope to reach balance. Hope to reach peace. Hope to heal. Hope to grow. With the help of a strong therapeutic relationship and appropriate interventions, I believe individuals can learn more about themselves through exploring past and present life occurrences. Within that process, present and future doubts, fears, or concerns can simultaneously be addressed.
(512) 645-1552 View (512) 645-1552
Photo of Susanna Kaufman , LPC Associate in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Susanna Kaufman
LPC Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
Life gets overwhelming sometimes. Feeling like no one really gets us or what we’ve been through is a lonely place to be. And sometimes just that one new challenge on top of everything else makes us wonder if we might need to reach out for help. Take the plunge. In our work together, I will help ground and guide us in the therapy process, but your needs and goals will remain the priority. I work with adults and offer a safe platform to look deeper at what challenges you face and what will help you overcome them. Our connection in therapy helps you explore and strengthen the connection you have with yourself and those around you.
Life gets overwhelming sometimes. Feeling like no one really gets us or what we’ve been through is a lonely place to be. And sometimes just that one new challenge on top of everything else makes us wonder if we might need to reach out for help. Take the plunge. In our work together, I will help ground and guide us in the therapy process, but your needs and goals will remain the priority. I work with adults and offer a safe platform to look deeper at what challenges you face and what will help you overcome them. Our connection in therapy helps you explore and strengthen the connection you have with yourself and those around you.
(512) 309-1808 View (512) 309-1808
Photo of Alice Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Alice Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
Are you facing challenges in your personal life that's impacting your relationships? Do you often feel these challenges leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or confused? I work collaboratively with clients, to help identify and achieve their goals. I sincerely strive to be a source of strength, hope, and empowerment for my clients. I have experience and enjoy working with a broad and diverse group of people; children, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families. Issues I am passionate about are; trauma, grief, family/romantic relationships, anxiety, effective communication skills, depression, and life transitions.
Are you facing challenges in your personal life that's impacting your relationships? Do you often feel these challenges leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or confused? I work collaboratively with clients, to help identify and achieve their goals. I sincerely strive to be a source of strength, hope, and empowerment for my clients. I have experience and enjoy working with a broad and diverse group of people; children, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families. Issues I am passionate about are; trauma, grief, family/romantic relationships, anxiety, effective communication skills, depression, and life transitions.
(737) 204-5592 View (737) 204-5592
Photo of Megan Counts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Megan Counts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
My work focuses on addressing the following areas: healthy relationship boundaries, improving interpersonal communication, holistic health needs, expression of self, mastering emotional regulation, promoting self-development, and managing chronic mental health issues. I assist clients in seeking to cultivate well-being by creating meaning and context around their experiences, realizing that by improving our relationship with ourselves, we are better equipped to navigate life.
My work focuses on addressing the following areas: healthy relationship boundaries, improving interpersonal communication, holistic health needs, expression of self, mastering emotional regulation, promoting self-development, and managing chronic mental health issues. I assist clients in seeking to cultivate well-being by creating meaning and context around their experiences, realizing that by improving our relationship with ourselves, we are better equipped to navigate life.
(512) 559-1494 View (512) 559-1494
Photo of Amber A J Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Amber A J Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753
Regardless of what life has thrown at you, I am here to go through it and grow through it with you. As a queer woman of color, I can relate to those who feel marginalized as a result of life’s most challenging situations and experiences. My goal is to help you effectively manage painful emotions and educate you to respond to difficult situations, thereby leading to a healthier, happier life. My approach is direct, open, and empathic. Respect, optimism and advocacy are at the core of my work. I specialize in counseling with individuals, couples, multi-partner relationships within LGBTQ+, and heterosexual communities of color.
Regardless of what life has thrown at you, I am here to go through it and grow through it with you. As a queer woman of color, I can relate to those who feel marginalized as a result of life’s most challenging situations and experiences. My goal is to help you effectively manage painful emotions and educate you to respond to difficult situations, thereby leading to a healthier, happier life. My approach is direct, open, and empathic. Respect, optimism and advocacy are at the core of my work. I specialize in counseling with individuals, couples, multi-partner relationships within LGBTQ+, and heterosexual communities of color.
(512) 982-9770 View (512) 982-9770
Photo of Jestina Franks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Jestina Franks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753
Hi, my name is Jestina Franks, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. I provide virtual counseling services to patients in Texas. I have extensive experience in assisting individuals with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and intimacy issues. My style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults seeking assistance dealing with life challenges and social pressures. Typically, my focus is on anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, intimacy, alternative relationships, and sexual health concerns.
Hi, my name is Jestina Franks, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. I provide virtual counseling services to patients in Texas. I have extensive experience in assisting individuals with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and intimacy issues. My style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults seeking assistance dealing with life challenges and social pressures. Typically, my focus is on anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, intimacy, alternative relationships, and sexual health concerns.
(737) 250-6508 View (737) 250-6508
Photo of Kimberly Orellana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Kimberly Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
You’ve heard of unconditional positive regard, but have you ever felt it? At times, it can feel that you give and give to others, but you have nothing left for yourself. Whether you would like to explore your true authentic self or break generational cycles that do not serve you – I am here to walk with you on this journey. If you would like to explore how to heal from intergenerational trauma or hone your existing coping skills and expand them, lets connect. My approach is affirming and based in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
You’ve heard of unconditional positive regard, but have you ever felt it? At times, it can feel that you give and give to others, but you have nothing left for yourself. Whether you would like to explore your true authentic self or break generational cycles that do not serve you – I am here to walk with you on this journey. If you would like to explore how to heal from intergenerational trauma or hone your existing coping skills and expand them, lets connect. My approach is affirming and based in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
(346) 545-5954 View (346) 545-5954
Photo of Melissa Switzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Melissa Switzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor Hills, Austin, TX 78753
Hi there, I'm Melissa! My name is Melissa Switzer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based near Austin, Texas. I work with clients state-wide utilizing telehealth. I work best with adolescents to adults, ranging in age from 10 and up. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, grief, neurodivergence, trauma, and life issues associated with the LGBTQ-plus community as a straight ally. I use psychoanalytic and Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help clients reach their therapeutic goals.
Hi there, I'm Melissa! My name is Melissa Switzer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based near Austin, Texas. I work with clients state-wide utilizing telehealth. I work best with adolescents to adults, ranging in age from 10 and up. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, grief, neurodivergence, trauma, and life issues associated with the LGBTQ-plus community as a straight ally. I use psychoanalytic and Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help clients reach their therapeutic goals.
(737) 250-6900 View (737) 250-6900

Online Therapists

Photo of Victoria Shackelford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Victoria Shackelford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
(210) 468-7214 View (210) 468-7214
Photo of Kim Tayler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Kim Tayler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, CCTP, KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
Her areas of expertise include chemical abuse/dependency, family of origin, codependency, family dynamics, sexual abuse, trauma, sexuality and spirituality.
Kim brings compassion, inspiration, support and insight to the adults she works with. She builds upon the strengths of her clients as she assists them in transitioning from self-abandonment to that of self-acceptance. Kim works in areas such as addiction and recovery, codependency, developmental trauma, spiritual exploration and discovery, intimacy and sexuality, and expanded state work integration. She utilizes both Eastern and Western philosophies to address mind, body and spirit, for a whole person approach toward healing and helps one uncover the essential qualities they have been longing for to arise from within.
Her areas of expertise include chemical abuse/dependency, family of origin, codependency, family dynamics, sexual abuse, trauma, sexuality and spirituality.
Kim brings compassion, inspiration, support and insight to the adults she works with. She builds upon the strengths of her clients as she assists them in transitioning from self-abandonment to that of self-acceptance. Kim works in areas such as addiction and recovery, codependency, developmental trauma, spiritual exploration and discovery, intimacy and sexuality, and expanded state work integration. She utilizes both Eastern and Western philosophies to address mind, body and spirit, for a whole person approach toward healing and helps one uncover the essential qualities they have been longing for to arise from within.
(737) 204-8855 View (737) 204-8855
Photo of Thomas Efird, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Thomas Efird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR-AC, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
(210) 806-7819 View (210) 806-7819
Photo of Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
(512) 710-1354 View (512) 710-1354
Photo of Katey Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Katey Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
(512) 866-7438 View (512) 866-7438
Photo of Wendy Copeland LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Wendy Copeland LMFT-S
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Acceptance. Hope. Healing. I have been practicing 14 years but over 22 years serving youth/families in various settings (ministry, teaching, coaching, leadership development, and mental health). I see couples, adults, and teens; I specialize in serving those struggling with body image, eating disorders, low self esteem, and survivors of trauma/sexual assault. My passion is helping clients make peace with their bodies/food and find healing from relational hurts/ past trauma. Also happy to integrate religion or talk past hurts. If you think you may benefit from therapy, please don't delay! www.wendycopeland.com
Acceptance. Hope. Healing. I have been practicing 14 years but over 22 years serving youth/families in various settings (ministry, teaching, coaching, leadership development, and mental health). I see couples, adults, and teens; I specialize in serving those struggling with body image, eating disorders, low self esteem, and survivors of trauma/sexual assault. My passion is helping clients make peace with their bodies/food and find healing from relational hurts/ past trauma. Also happy to integrate religion or talk past hurts. If you think you may benefit from therapy, please don't delay! www.wendycopeland.com
(737) 234-9978 x101 View (737) 234-9978 x101
Photo of Lorin Williams East, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Lorin Williams East
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753
I am Lorin Williams East, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience. I have had the honor of working alongside survivors of abuse and assault, which has given me a deep understanding of how people can live with traumas they have experienced. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Feminist, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe we all deserve compassion and a space to be authentic while growing and learning to function in each individual life.
I am Lorin Williams East, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience. I have had the honor of working alongside survivors of abuse and assault, which has given me a deep understanding of how people can live with traumas they have experienced. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Feminist, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe we all deserve compassion and a space to be authentic while growing and learning to function in each individual life.
(512) 883-9006 View (512) 883-9006
Photo of Dr. Tricia Blewitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Dr. Tricia Blewitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78726  (Online Only)
Are you looking to improve your sex life and/or relationship? I recently graduated with my Ph.D in sexology, becoming the most advanced in the sex therapy field to offer my clients the most up-to-date practices and information in regards to sex, sex/porn addiction, low libido, sexual abuse, sexual traumas, sexual dysfunctions, desire differences in partnerships, identity issues, kink and polyamory. I am sex positive and welcome all sexual orientations. I am a Certified Sex Therapist who uses a direct, compassionate approach to help you and your sex life. I work on goals, meaning, and clarity to help you best help yourself.
Are you looking to improve your sex life and/or relationship? I recently graduated with my Ph.D in sexology, becoming the most advanced in the sex therapy field to offer my clients the most up-to-date practices and information in regards to sex, sex/porn addiction, low libido, sexual abuse, sexual traumas, sexual dysfunctions, desire differences in partnerships, identity issues, kink and polyamory. I am sex positive and welcome all sexual orientations. I am a Certified Sex Therapist who uses a direct, compassionate approach to help you and your sex life. I work on goals, meaning, and clarity to help you best help yourself.
(512) 605-1627 View (512) 605-1627
Photo of Jennifer Scardino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Jennifer Scardino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
(726) 224-4588 View (726) 224-4588
Photo of Sabira Ahmed, LPC Associate in Windsor Hills, Austin, TX
Sabira Ahmed
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
child abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner violence).
As a therapist, I am dedicated to building a therapeutic environment that encourages authenticity, transparency, and compassion. I take a client-oriented approach that centers around my belief that people can take charge of their journey to healing and recovery. I trust that the client is the expert of their own lives, and my role is to consistently empower them to develop toolkits to be able to navigate daily struggles and lived experiences.
child abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner violence).
As a therapist, I am dedicated to building a therapeutic environment that encourages authenticity, transparency, and compassion. I take a client-oriented approach that centers around my belief that people can take charge of their journey to healing and recovery. I trust that the client is the expert of their own lives, and my role is to consistently empower them to develop toolkits to be able to navigate daily struggles and lived experiences.
(512) 862-1654 View (512) 862-1654
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.